Reassortant Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1) in Poultry, Nigeria, 2007
Author Information
Author(s): Monne Isabella, Joannis Tony M., Fusaro Alice, De Benedictis Paola, Lombin Lami H., Ularamu Husseini, Egbuji Anthony, Solomon Poman, Obi Tim U., Cattoli Giovanni, Capua Ilaria
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
What are the genetic characteristics of influenza virus (H5N1) samples circulating in Nigeria in early 2007?
Conclusion
The study found that a new reassortant strain of influenza virus (H5N1) is widespread in poultry across at least 7 Nigerian states.
Supporting Evidence
- 10 of 12 strains obtained over a 39-day period were EMA1/EMA2-2:6-R07 reassortant viruses.
- The viruses circulating in 2007 in Nigeria differ from the original sublineage prototypes introduced during 2006.
- Evidence suggests that co-infection with viruses of different sublineages has occurred in poultry.
Takeaway
Scientists studied some sick birds in Nigeria and found a new type of flu virus that is spreading among them.
Methodology
The study involved genetic characterization of 12 influenza virus (H5N1) samples from different outbreaks in Nigeria by sequencing their entire genomes.
Limitations
The genetic characteristics of the human Nigerian isolate are currently unavailable.
Participant Demographics
Samples were taken from poultry in 8 Nigerian states.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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